By Tesia Nagorka
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
God made us to need each other. Life will always have its trials, but how much stronger are we when we have people around us that we trust!
Work is better and more fruitful when we link arms and work together. And no matter who you are, there will be times when life and emotion knock you down – when you’re too weak to get up on your own. We need people who see the best in us when we’re at our worst, speaking life and pulling us up.
And what if the world throws a storm that we’re both caught in? Something powerful happens when we go through tough times together – comfort and strength happen, and an even stronger bond with one another.
I know many people interpret verse 12 within the context of prayer – that when people join together in prayer, it is powerful – and that is absolutely true. But, I believe verse 12 means something much broader than just a moment of prayer. I believe it is talking about the unity and strength of friendship, and the effect healthy relationships have on us.
“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
Who is your life intertwined with? Do they work with you rather than against you? Do they speak the truth to you in love? Believe the best in you when you’re down? Are you comforted by their company? Do they fight alongside you? Does their presence in your life strengthen you? Do you do all of these things, equally, for them?
This is a picture of healthy relationships. This is how God made us – to need each other. It doesn’t make us weak to need one another. In fact, it makes us strong – not easily broken!